Lagos-based Euracare Multispecialist Hospital has denied allegations of medical negligence by Nigerian author Chimamanda Adichie over the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.

The hospital management extended its condolences to Ms Adichie and her family, describing the loss as “beyond words” and saying it recognised the grief of the family during “this deeply distressing time.”

In its statement, Euracare said some reports circulating in the media were inaccurate.

It described itself as “a reputable centre for complex medical care, led by an internationally trained and experienced clinical team.”

The hospital added that Master Nnamdi, who it said was critically ill, was referred to its facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment at two paediatric centres.

“Upon arrival, our medical team immediately provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, including the administration of sedation where clinically indicated,” the hospital said.

Euracare said it worked collaboratively with external medical teams recommended by the family and ensured that all necessary clinical support was provided.

The hospital said that despite the efforts, Master Nnamdi passed away less than 24 hours after arriving at the facility.

“We have commenced a detailed investigation consistent with our clinical governance standards and best practices. We remain committed to engaging transparently and responsibly with all clinical and regulatory processes,” the statement added.

The hospital said it respects the family’s privacy and was allowing due process to take its course.

Ms Adichie had alleged that her son was not properly monitored after the sedative was administered.

“My son would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th,” she said in a statement.

“It turns out that Nkanu was never monitored after being given too much propofol. The anesthesiologist had just casually carried Nkanu on his shoulder to the theatre, so nobody knew when exactly Nkanu became unresponsive,” she alleged.